2 Kings 13:23
And the LORD was gracious unto them, and had compassion on them, and had respect unto them, because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from his presence as yet.
2 Kings 13:23 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of 2 Kings highlights the significance of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Lord showed grace, compassion, and respect towards the people of Israel because of the promise He made to their ancestors. Despite the sins and shortcomings of the Israelites, God's faithfulness to His covenant kept Him from destroying them completely. The covenant served as a reminder of God's enduring love and mercy towards His chosen people. Even in times of rebellion and disobedience, God's presence was not completely withdrawn from the Israelites. This verse serves as a powerful testament to the unchanging nature of God and His commitment to His people throughout generations.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, we see the profound theological concept of God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Lord's grace, compassion, and respect towards the Israelites were not based on their own merit but on the promises He made to their forefathers. This demonstrates God's consistent character of mercy and kindness towards His people, even when they were undeserving. The word 'respect' used here implies that God held the Israelites in high regard because of His covenant with their ancestors, showing His commitment to fulfill His promises despite the people's shortcomings. By not destroying them or casting them from His presence, God exemplifies His enduring love and commitment to His chosen people throughout history. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of honoring the covenants He establishes with His people.
2 Kings 13:23 in other translations
American Standard Version
But Jehovah was gracious unto them, and had compassion on them, and had respect unto them, because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from his presence as yet.
World English Bible
But Yahweh was gracious to them, and had compassion on them, and had respect to them, because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from his presence as yet.
Douay-Rheims
And the Lord had mercy on them, and returned to them, because of his covenant, which he had made with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob: and he would not destroy them, nor utterly cast them away, unto this present time.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore the Lord had mercy on them and pitied them, and had respect vnto them because of his couenant with Abraham, Izhak, and Iaakob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from him as yet.